Rio Ferdinand does not think in-form Arsenal star Bukayo Saka is in the "world-class" bracket, having yet to make his mark in the Champions League.
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Ferdinand says Saka is not world-class yetHas scored four times in the last three matchesArsenal's top scorer this seasonWHAT HAPPENED?
The England international has displayed scintillating form of late, having scored five times in Arsenal's last five Premier League outings, including a brace against West Ham last weekend. Despite his rich vein of form, Manchester United legend Ferdinand thinks that the winger is yet to attain world-class status as he has not proved his worth in the Champions League yet.
AdvertisementWHAT RIO FERDINAND SAID
Speaking on the podcast, the former England defender said: "Not yet. Listen. I think Saka's been unreal. I actually think he needs a bit of a rest, so many games for a young kid. But I think, it's almost like what is world-class? He hasn't done it in the Champions League, has he? I'm talking in the nitty-gritty stages. Saka's top, don't get me wrong. He's not world-class yet."
(C)GettyImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
With his opening strike against the Hammers on Sunday, the attacker achieved the milestone of scoring his 50th club goal in 210 appearances at the age of just 22. Saka later doubled his tally in the second half to bring up his 51st goal for the Gunners. The English star is also the north London side's highest goalscorer this season with 13 goals to his name.
Getty WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?
Mikel Arteta's side, who are currently tied on points with Manchester City and two behind league leaders Liverpool, will next take on Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday. Saka will then have the chance to prove Ferdinand wrong when Arsenal travel to Porto for the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie.
